This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is perfect for busy nights! With juicy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy honey Dijon sauce, it’s a hit at the dinner table.
I love how quick and simple it is to throw together. Just mix the sauce, coat the chicken, and pop it in the oven—dinner made easy and tasty! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this dish, as they cook evenly and stay tender. If you prefer another cut, thighs could add more flavor. You can also use frozen chicken; just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
Dijon Mustard: This is key for that tangy flavor! If you don’t have Dijon, yellow mustard can work in a pinch, but the flavor will be milder. For a spicier kick, consider using whole grain mustard.
Honey: I love honey for its sweetness, but agave syrup or maple syrup can be great substitutes for a different flavor profile. Just remember, if you go with a liquid sweetener, the consistency might change a bit!
Olive Oil: Olive oil is my go-to for cooking. You can use avocado oil or melted butter if you want something different. Each will add its own unique flavor.
Herbs: While I suggest dried thyme or Italian seasoning, feel free to use whatever herbs you have on hand. Fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley add a lovely touch too!
How Do I Get the Chicken to Cook Evenly?
Cooking chicken evenly is important for juicy results. Here are some tips to make sure your chicken cooks perfectly:
- Thicker pieces cook longer, so try to buy chicken breasts of similar size. If some are thicker, you can gently pound them to an even thickness.
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the chicken inside to ensure even cooking from the start.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Pull out the chicken once it hits 165°F (75°C). If you have leftover juice from the baking dish, you can baste the chicken during cooking for extra flavor and moisture.
Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken for Busy Weeknights
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Time Estimate:
This recipe is quick and easy! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and then 20-25 minutes for baking. Altogether, you’re looking at around 35-40 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a busy weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will make cleanup easier, too!
2. Make the Honey Dijon Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, and dried thyme (or your choice of Italian seasoning). Whisk these ingredients until they are well combined; this will create a delicious sauce for your chicken.
3. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and season both sides with salt and pepper. This helps to enhance the natural flavor of the chicken.
4. Arrange the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. It’s important they aren’t overlapping, so they cook evenly.
5. Coat with Sauce:
Pour the honey Dijon sauce evenly over the chicken breasts. Make sure each piece is well coated; this will keep the chicken juicy and add lots of flavor!
6. Bake the Chicken:
Pop the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You want the chicken to be fully cooked and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Add a Broiled Finish (Optional):
If you like a slightly caramelized top, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it, as broiling can go from golden to burnt quickly!
8. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making it more flavorful and tender.
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Serve your delicious honey Dijon chicken with your favorite sides—roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad work wonderfully!
Enjoy your quick and flavorful honey Dijon chicken that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to fully thaw it beforehand for even cooking. Thaw your chicken in the refrigerator overnight or quickly by placing it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Once thawed, follow the recipe as usual!
What Can I Substitute for Dijon Mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard, yellow mustard can be a suitable substitute, but it will have a milder flavor. For a bit more kick, you might also try whole grain mustard. If you’re looking for a non-mustard option, consider using a spicy or flavored mayonnaise!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the chicken moist.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just coat the chicken and cover the dish, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the chicken is cold from the fridge.
